How do you calculate the amplitude in simple harmonic motion?

The amplitude in simple harmonic motion is the maximum displacement from the equilibrium position.

In simple harmonic motion, an object oscillates back and forth around a central equilibrium point. The amplitude is the maximum displacement from this equilibrium point. It is measured in metres (m) and is represented by the symbol A.

To calculate the amplitude, you need to measure the displacement of the object from its equilibrium position at any given point in time. This can be done using a ruler or other measuring device. The displacement is then divided by 2 to get the amplitude.

Alternatively, the amplitude can be calculated using the equation A = (x_max - x_min)/2, where x_max is the maximum displacement from the equilibrium position and x_min is the minimum displacement from the equilibrium position.

The amplitude of a simple harmonic motion system is related to its energy. The greater the amplitude, the greater the energy of the system. This is because the object must travel a greater distance to complete one oscillation, which requires more energy. To understand this better, consider exploring Energy in Simple Harmonic Motion.

To gain a deeper understanding of simple harmonic motion, including its fundamentals and how amplitude fits into these concepts, review the Basics of Simple Harmonic Motion. Additionally, learning about Simple Harmonic Oscillations - Oscillation Terms and the related Kinetic and Potential Energy in SHM can further enhance your comprehension of how energy dynamics operate in these systems.

A-Level Physics Tutor Summary: The amplitude in simple harmonic motion, denoted as A, is the maximum distance an object moves from its central equilibrium point. It's measured in metres. To find the amplitude, either measure the highest displacement and divide by 2 or use the formula A = (x_max - x_min)/2. A larger amplitude means more energy in the system, as the object travels further in each oscillation.